Accused Bondi Gunmen Operated Independently and Did Not Undergo Training in the Philippines, Authorities State.
The pair of accused attackers who carried out the deadly incident at a Jewish celebration on Bondi Beach, that took 15 lives, reportedly operated independently, as stated by national police.
Investigators further stated that Sajid Akram, 50, and his son Naveed Akram travelled to the Philippines on 1 November. Their travel plans included landing in the capital Manila before transiting that same day to Davao City. The father and son flew back to Sydney on 29 November.
No Evidence of Training During Stay
Authorities indicate the pair did not partake in any form of attack-related coaching or "planning" during their visit in the Philippines. Initial investigations from Philippine authorities indicate they "hardly ventured out of" their hotel.
The incident—declared Australia's worst mass shooting since 1996—has been officially declared a act of terrorism.
"Our teams are currently reviewing the material," she stated, noting that early reviews show that "the alleged offenders are alleged to have operated independently."
National law enforcement Commissioner Krissy Barrett informed reporters on Tuesday that security camera video tracking the alleged gunmen's movements in the Philippines had been handed over to domestic investigators.
"There is no evidence to indicate these suspects were part of a wider organization, or were instructed by overseas entities to execute an attack," Commissioner Barrett emphasized.
But, the pair were likewise not necessarily in the Philippines for tourism, she noted. She emphasized that, since the investigation is continuing, fresh information may come to light.
Inspiration and Legal Proceedings
In prior statements, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said it seems both alleged gunmen were "motivated by ISIS" beliefs.
During the attack, Sajid Akram was killed by police. He and his son Naveed—both armed with rifles—allegedly shot participants at the Hanukkah event.
Naveed Akram, who was injured and taken to hospital after the attack, has been charged with 59 crimes. These comprise 15 charges of murder and one count of committing a act of terrorism. He is expected to face court in April.
Immigration Particulars
In the days following the attack, immigration officials in the Philippines reported that the older suspect had arrived in the country using an foreign passport, while his son used an Australian passport.
The duo had declared the metropolis of Davao as their intended endpoint. Their booked journey back to Australia was for Sydney.
Davao is a expansive urban center on the east of Mindanao, the Philippines' primary southern island. It is noted that, Militant militants have reportedly be active in impoverished parts of southern and western Mindanao.